The Positives of Toddler Play
Published February 2013: Mom.Me
The Positives of Toddler Play
Building self-confidence never seemed so fun
Article Excerpt:
It’s no secret that toddlers look forward to playdates, outdoor trips to the park and new toys to fill up the floor of their rooms. Beyond making your child grin from ear to ear, though, the positives of toddler play also contribute significantly to your child’s development. “Playing is a child’s job,” says Nancy Buck, developmental psychologist with Peaceful Parenting in Denver, Colo. “On every level—physical, emotional, intellectual or social—a child is learning.” Continue reading
When to Indulge
Published February 2013: Mom.Me
When to Indulge
How to determine if you should say ‘yes’ or ‘no’
Article Excerpt:
You probably hear yourself saying “no” countless times a day. But sometimes a “yes” may be the best course of action. In fact, indulging your child once in a while can show her the value of accomplishments. “A treat on a whim can be fun [and] invite spontaneity and surprise in your lives,” said Erica Curtis, Santa Monica, California-based family therapist. Continue reading
Dealing With Childhood Obesity
Published February 2013: Mom.Me
Dealing With Childhood Obesity
‘Eat right’ and other tips to help your kids achieve a healthy weight
Article Excerpt:
When a child is dealing with obesity, it’s imperative that parents understand the emotional and physical challenges he faces regularly. “Speaking from experience, there are few things more painful than being an obese child or teen,” said Dee McCaffrey, organic chemist and author of “The Science of Skinny,” of Tempe, Arizona. Continue reading
Rights of Foster Kids
Published February 2013: Mom.Me
Rights of Foster Kids
Find out the legal requirements of foster families
Article Excerpt:
The transitions and adjustments that children in foster care face can be challenging, both emotionally and mentally. From feelings of abandonment to fear of attachment, these children may not be able to cope with these life changes while also monitoring that their rights are enforced. Continue reading
Teaching Kids About Cleanliness
Published February 2013: Mom.Me
Teaching Kids About Cleanliness
How to avoid germs and keep your little ones healthy
Article Excerpt:
Germs are everywhere, especially when you’re a kid. From picking up bugs on the playground and sharing cups with friends to holding hands and touching dirty sinks in public areas, it’s likely your little one or teen has been exposed to germs and bacteria. Continue reading
About Me
Three words to describe me? Passionate. Motivated. Curious. These traits help me as a college media adviser and professor, freelance writer, author and mom. From student journalism and higher education to parenting and freelance writing, this site, focused on writing, reflecting and teaching, offers a mix of blogs with a hint of humor, sarcasm, and inspiration, as well as my published stories on just about every possible topic.
Feel free to browse my sample works including feature news, magazine, and web copywriting pieces from the past and present. You can also pick up my new book “Screen-Free Fun: 400 Activities for the Whole Family” now available. Check back often for daily updates, blog entries, and additional stories. Feel free to contact me directly at shphilpott@gmail.com, follow me on Twitter, or grab tips for Screen-Free Fun on our Facebook page. Comments are welcome!
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 